THE GREAT AMERICAN ECLIPSE

In August 2017, the Great American Eclipse captivated millions of people across the United States. As a professional photographer and astronomy enthusiast, I knew I couldn’t miss the opportunity to capture this awe-inspiring celestial event. In this blog post, I’ll share my unforgettable 10-hour road trip from Colorado Springs, Colorado to Casper, Wyoming, and the incredible experience of witnessing the total solar eclipse.

Months before the eclipse, I began planning my journey. Determining the perfect location to witness the complete totality of the eclipse was crucial. I turned to NASA’s official website to consult their interactive maps, which allowed me to pinpoint the ideal spot within the path of totality. After thorough research, I decided on Casper, Wyoming – a picturesque city with a rich history and welcoming atmosphere.

The anticipation and excitement grew as I arrived at a public park in Casper, Wyoming, where I found myself in good company. Surrounded by fellow astronomy enthusiasts, scientists, and news crews, the atmosphere was electric. We all eagerly awaited the moment when the moon would fully obscure the sun, casting a shadow on the Earth below.

As totality approached, the excitement in the park was palpable. The surreal moment arrived – in a matter of seconds, the sky turned from bright daylight to an eerie darkness. The temperature dropped, and the landscape took on an otherworldly appearance.

The sudden change in lighting conditions not only affected humans but also the wildlife. Birds began chirping, as if it were twilight, and a fox emerged from its hiding place in the nearby bushes. Confused and disoriented, it ran in circles without a sense of direction, seemingly panicked by the sudden darkness.

Amidst the excitement, I focused on capturing this rare celestial event through my camera lens. The photographs I took during those brief moments of totality were nothing short of stunning – the sun’s corona revealed in all its majestic beauty, glowing like a halo around the moon.

Though the trip took a lot out of me, the experience of witnessing the Great American Eclipse was absolutely worth it. I returned home with a sense of awe and gratitude, as well as a collection of amazing photographs that will forever serve as a reminder of this once-in-a-lifetime event. If you ever have the chance to witness a total solar eclipse, don’t hesitate – it’s an experience you’ll never forget.